“It’s Like Comparing Apples And Oranges”: Candace Parker Weighs In On Caitlin Clark-Angel Reese Rivalry

Candace Parker, one of the most influential figures in women’s basketball, has shared her candid thoughts on the rivalry between Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese. While both players have become household names, drawing significant attention to the WNBA and women’s college basketball, Parker feels that the comparisons between the two are exaggerated, and perhaps even misleading.

In an interview with Jemele Hill, Parker made it clear that while Clark and Reese have undoubtedly elevated the profile of the women’s game, comparing them to each other—or to legendary NBA duos like Magic Johnson and Larry Bird—doesn’t make sense.

“Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese, it’s like what are we doing? They like doing the Magic and Bird comparison, well, they played similar positions. They at least kind of matched up. I’m not falling into that,” Parker said, signaling that the comparison between the two players, although popular, doesn’t do justice to their distinct skill sets and roles on the court.

“Apples and Oranges” — A Rivalry That Doesn’t Add Up

Parker doubled down on her stance, explaining that the two athletes, though both impactful, are fundamentally different players, making direct comparisons irrelevant. “It’s like comparing apples and oranges. I’m not falling into that. I think there are a number of things that AR can improve on,” she added, referring to Angel Reese by her initials.

The apples and oranges analogy highlighted how different Reese and Clark are in terms of their playing style, positions, and the impact they bring to their teams. While both players have had major impacts on their respective teams, Parker suggests that the hype surrounding their rivalry needs to be tempered by an acknowledgment of their individual growth and strengths.

Caitlin Clark: More Than Just a Shooter

The conversation then shifted to Caitlin Clark, where Parker’s tone turned more analytical and supportive. As one of the most prolific long-range shooters in women’s basketball, Clark’s ability to score from anywhere on the floor is her most talked-about skill. However, Parker pointed out that Clark’s value extends far beyond her shooting ability.

“The thing about Caitlin, yes, she can shoot from the logo, but she makes her team better,” Parker noted. She continued, emphasizing that Clark’s growth as a player will rely on two critical areas: movement without the ball and taking care of the ball. “In terms of her growth, it’s going to be about movement—what are you doing without the ball in your hands? I think it’s also going to be about taking care of the ball,” Parker added.

This insight into Clark’s game highlights the potential for further development, not just as a shooter, but as a well-rounded leader who can impact all aspects of the game, especially in the team-oriented WNBA environment.

Acknowledging the Impact of Clark and Reese

Parker’s analysis comes with a deep respect for both Clark and Reese. While she does not buy into the narrative of their rivalry, she acknowledges their undeniable talent and the ways in which they’ve shaped the current landscape of women’s basketball.

Clark, in particular, has already had an immense impact on the Indiana Fever, helping them clinch a playoff berth for the first time in eight years last season. Her growth as a leader and a player, as Parker mentioned, will continue to drive her success in the WNBA, where the competition is fierce, and the stakes are high.

Conclusion: Celebrating Individual Strengths

Candace Parker’s comments on the Caitlin Clark-Angel Reese rivalry serve as a reminder that while both players have brought excitement to the women’s basketball world, they each bring their own unique strengths to the table. Comparing the two may do a disservice to their individual growth and contributions to the game. As the WNBA season progresses, both Clark and Reese will continue to evolve as players, but it’s clear that their paths—though both leading to greatness—are distinct, and that’s what makes them truly special.

Parker’s insight encourages fans to appreciate the uniqueness of each player and to avoid oversimplifying their legacies by forcing them into one rivalry narrative.